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The Pawsitive Guardian

The Pawsitive Guardian

Research shows that most people who practice gratitude feel happier. It also shows that living with a dog can do the same. So, what if you combined the two? How much better could your life become?

Last year, IDA friend Carlyn Montes De Oca noticed a trend. Her acupuncture patients felt more stressed, anxious, and even depressed. They attributed it to growing political instability, the insecurity of the environment, and having to work harder to make ends meet. All complained of having little time to take better care of themselves or spend quality time with their beloved animal companions. What could she prescribe to make them feel better they asked? “Herbs, acupuncture, a new therapy? Her prescription was summed up in one word - “gratitude.”

Carlyn believes one of our greatest, easiest, and most powerful tools to build internal resilience, and enhance our emotional strength is a daily gratitude practice. And for those of you with a dog as a beloved companion, you have the perfect mentor to inspire you on that journey – your canine BFF.

Paws for the Good Stuff – A dog lover’s journal for creating a happier and more pawsitive life, encourages dog guardians to look beyond their “pet” relationship and explore a new awareness. By mindfully connecting with your dog in as little as five minutes a day, and journaling your insights, you realize dogs have much to teach us about releasing negativity and embracing a more pawsitive life.

Feeling connected, enjoying the present, and living joyfully are a few of the life-enhancing benefits our animal friends bring to our relationships. By practicing gratitude, you will discover many more. And for those animal advocates challenged by the relentless issues facing animals, Paws for the Good Stuff can provide a daily structure to soothe our hearts and find hope as we work to make this a better place for our animal friends.

Gratitude is like a snowball rolling down a hill and gaining momentum. The more we practice it, the more grateful we feel. In time, we can glimpse the world through a new filter; one that helps us face challenges with new perspective and greater promise. The next time you feel down and can’t shake it, look to your canine friends and list the ways you are grateful they are in your life. You may find an endless list and an unexpected smile creeping back onto your face.

Carlyn Montes De Oca is a passionate animal guardian, speaker, and award – winning author of Dog as My Doctor, Cat as My Nurse and Paws for the Good Stuff.

Watch her TEDxWilmington talk, The Life- Changing Power of the Animal-Human Health Connection. 10% of proceeds from Paws for the Good Stuff benefits the Guardian Campaign at In Defense of Animals. Visit Carlyn at AnimalHumanHealth.com.

 

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